Adding a pashmina to your outerwear is a fantastic way to enhance warmth, introduce color, texture, and style to your look. Here's how you can wear a pashmina over a coat, including a specific method demonstrated in video guides.
Popular Ways to Style a Pashmina Over a Coat
A pashmina, whether a blend of cashmere and silk or other fine materials, is versatile enough to be styled in numerous ways over various coat types, from trench coats to puffers. The key is to choose a method that complements the coat's neckline and the desired level of warmth.
Here are a few common techniques:
1. The Loop and Twist Method (as seen in video references)
This technique creates a neat, secure knot that sits close to the neck, offering excellent warmth and a clean finish over your coat collar.
Steps:
- Fold: Fold your pashmina lengthwise.
- Drape: Drape the folded pashmina around your neck, with one side forming a loop and the other side having the two loose ends.
- Insert: Take one of the loose ends and pull it through the loop.
- Tighten: Pull the loop and the inserted end to tighten it comfortably around your neck.
- Twist (Optional/Refinement): The reference mentions a "twist." After pulling the first end through, you can twist the loop itself before pulling the second end through (for a different knot) or twist the ends together slightly for neatness, depending on the exact knot variation desired. The core idea shown is creating a loop and pulling an end through.
This method results in a secure knot ideal for windy days, keeping the pashmina snugly in place.
2. The Simple Drape
This is the easiest and most elegant way to wear a pashmina.
Steps:
- Simply drape the unfolded pashmina over your shoulders, allowing both ends to hang equally down the front over your coat.
This works well with open coats or coats with simple necklines. It offers minimal warmth around the neck but adds a layer of sophistication and visual interest.
3. The Once Around
This method provides good neck warmth and keeps the ends secure.
Steps:
- Drape the pashmina around your neck with one end significantly longer than the other.
- Take the longer end and wrap it once around your neck.
- Adjust both ends to hang down the front, either unevenly or by pulling the wrapped loop down slightly.
This creates a cozy, layered look around the neck.
4. The Belted Pashmina
This style defines your waist and adds a chic layer.
Steps:
- Drape the pashmina over your shoulders, covering the front of your coat.
- Secure the pashmina and coat by cinching your waist with a belt over both layers.
This works best with longer coats and pashminas, transforming the pashmina into a flowing, vest-like layer.
Choosing the Right Pashmina for Your Coat
Consider these factors when pairing a pashmina with your coat:
- Size: A larger pashmina offers more styling options and warmth.
- Material: Cashmere blends are warm and soft. Silk blends are lighter and have a beautiful sheen. Wool provides excellent insulation.
- Color: Choose a color that complements your coat – either a matching neutral, a coordinating shade, or a bold contrast for a pop of color.
- Pattern: A patterned pashmina can add personality to a solid coat.
Styling Summary
Here's a quick overview of some popular pashmina styles over a coat:
| Style | Look | Warmth Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Drape | Elegant & Laid-back | Low | Adding color/texture, mild weather |
| Loop & Twist Method | Neat & Secure | High | Cold/windy weather, structured coats |
| Once Around | Cozy & Classic | Medium/High | Everyday warmth, casual to smart looks |
| Belted | Chic & Defined | Medium | Adding structure, longer coats |
Experiment with different folds and knots to find the style that best suits your coat, the weather, and your personal preference.
